Marvel’s What If…? Season 3 Episode 2 Review - Who Can Stop Agatha?

Season 3 Episode 2 of What If...? takes an intriguing turn, continuing the alternate universe saga of Agatha Harkness. Following her discovery of a celestial being germinating deep within the Earth's core, Agatha remains driven by her unquenchable thirst for power. Determined to harness the immense cosmic energy, she devises a spell powerful enough to siphon it. However, a ritual of this magnitude requires an equally theatrical production—and what better stage than Hollywood itself?

Agatha allies with Howard Stark, a visionary inventor and mogul, who is at the helm of Hollywood’s burgeoning golden age. Together, they orchestrate a cinematic spectacle designed to conceal the ritual's true purpose. Stark's glitzy charisma brings in top-tier talent, including the famous Eternal-turned- superstar, Kingo. The episode provides a vibrant homage to Bollywood culture, complete with dazzling song-and-dance numbers. Kingo’s charismatic moves—set to an infectious tune—become a highlight of the episode.

When Kingo arrives on set, the stakes escalate. He discovers that Agatha has drained the powers of his fellow Eternals under the guise of a benevolent mission. She manipulates Kingo with a mix of flattery and half-truths, insisting she needs his energy to "save her world." Torn between loyalty to his kind and Agatha's persuasive charm, Kingo reluctantly agrees to lend his power. However, their plan catches the attention of Arishem, the Prime Celestial.

In a climactic showdown, Arishem materializes to prevent the ritual. Agatha, now emboldened by the powers she has stolen, engages him in a fierce battle. The sequence is visually stunning, combining spellbinding magic and celestial energy in a kaleidoscope of colors and destruction. Ultimately, Agatha outmaneuvers Arishem, siphoning his powers as well. Now imbued with unimaginable strength, she becomes a cosmic deity, capable of reshaping reality.

With her newfound dominance, Agatha sets her sights on enslaving Earth, asserting herself as the ultimate ruler. And this isn’t right. The only person who can now convince Agatha is Kingo. How will he do that? Will he succeed in this mission?

Episode 2 delivers a mix of action, drama, and whimsy, blending Hollywood's opulence with cosmic stakes. While Agatha's rise to power is compelling, the lighthearted resolution and Bollywood elements give the episode a unique flavor. However, the pacing falters at times, and some character motivations feel underexplored. Despite these flaws, Kingo's and Agatha’s dance sequence stands out as a memorable and entertaining moment.  And not to mention, the stunning display of Agatha's celestial power, which becomes a visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. As the ritual progresses, we witness her transformation from a cunning sorceress to an entity of cosmic might, radiating an otherworldly glow that illuminates the screen. The animators outdo themselves in portraying the raw energy she absorbs, with swirling patterns of shimmering light and pulsating waves of power that seem to ripple through the fabric of reality itself.

When Agatha takes on Arishem, the visual artistry reaches its peak. Her celestial-infused magic manifests as intricate, glowing sigils that dance around her in an ethereal symphony, contrasting with the sheer, unbridled energy of Arishem's cosmic presence. The battle is nothing short of breathtaking, with bursts of vibrant energy tearing through the environment, creating a spectacle that feels both monumental and intimate.

Ultimately, this episode offers a fun, albeit uneven, exploration of power, ambition, and unexpected alliances. It leaves viewers wondering what other unpredictable twists await in this multiversal anthology.

Final Score- [7/10]